Michael admits that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but there was $1,200, which the family will donate for pediatric brain cancer research. A card from Santa accompanying the money called Michael “a shining star.”

"Proud is the best word to describe it as a parent. Just proud,” said Michael’s father, Ed Bell.

Michael’s parents said they weren’t expecting the outpouring of generosity their son received. They thought they would maybe be able to donate around $50.

Now, seeing Christmas through the eyes of her 8-year-old, Amy Bell says her faith is renewed.

"He’s just that type of caring, compassionate kid,” Amy Bell said. “People that heard the story, they were just moved. For an 8-year-old to be so selfless, we could learn a lot from that.”